The Villains look set to be relegated to the Championship this season following a disastrous campaign.

They are currently bottom of the table and 12 points from safety having managed just three wins all season.

Many believe they could be set for further disappointment in the Championship next season given how poor they have been this season.

Pleat though, believes that they may return to the top flight in the next two or three years.

"The board have made so many mistakes at Aston Villa but they are getting new people on the board who know English football,” he told BBC Sport.

"Their transfer policy needs to improve, but I expect to see Villa back in the Premier League in two or three years' time. Next season, Aston Villa are going to have to look at recruiting the very best Championship players.”

“They might be able to lure them to Villa Park, because they can afford the salaries. So any new manager has to know players at that level."

Sean Lunt

Sean Lunt is a Journalism and Spanish graduate with a passion for football. As an avid Everton fan he has survived the Walter Smith era, enjoyed the resurgence under David Moyes and is now wholly embracing the Spanish revolution with Roberto Martinez. Away from Everton he follows the rest of the football league and has a particular interest in La Liga.